“Then the temple of the Lord was filled with a cloud, and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled the temple of God” II Chronicles 5:13b,14.
This past weekend was Easter and for many it signified their return to in person church after covid. While many joined us online, there were many hundreds who joined us live – what a sense of joy, relief, and unburdening! The singing was rich and full of meaning.
It makes me think of the building and dedication of Solomon’s temple. Just think of all the work that went into it. David, knowing that he was not the one to build it, amassed so much of the materials. Then the huge logging project in Lebanon to cut cedars and float them to Israel – across land to Jerusalem. Huram-Abi was a master craftsman and made all the pillars and temple accoutrements – a huge job. The priests went to so much work to craft a wonderful dedication service as they brought the Ark to its resting place. But it was when the choir and priestly band joined together in sung worship and praise that the Lord chose to inhabit the place.
We all wonder what will happen to the Church post covid. Have we received too many crippling blows to recover? Will differences of opinion harden and become permanent? Will the Church continue its decline in the eyes of secular Canadians?
I wonder what could happen if we continue to offer heartfelt praise and worship – declaring the might and worth of God? Perhaps – just perhaps He would choose to inhabit in power – that the Holy Spirit would fully have His way among us?
This is last call for our spiritual retreat this Saturday (April 23) at camp Kawkawa. We will focus on prayer during this time away, including a time of silent retreat among the cedars and by the water – it will be a great day. Dwayne Toews will lead us in worship and Kirsten Rumary will be our speaker.
Pastor Leon Throness
